Missouri stands with Virginia; Blunt declares statewide day of mourning

Friday, April 20, 2007

Nevada Daily Mail

JEFFERSON CITY -- Gov. Matt Blunt announced on Thursday that Missouri will mark a statewide day of mourning in remembrance of the Virginia Tech victims today.

Several Vernon Countians also donned orange and crimson ribbons -- the school's colors -- in remembrance.

"This week we were shocked as this killer maliciously took the lives of innocent victims in this senseless act; today we lift our voice in prayer for our neighbors affected by this horrible tragedy," Blunt said. "On this day of mourning I am asking Missourians to stand with Virginia and pray together for those who lost a loved one, for those who are recovering from wounds seen and unseen and for the safety, medical and education professionals who offered their lives and talents to help others."

Virginia Gov. Timothy Kaine asked governors across the nation to join with him in declaring a day of mourning this Friday to remember the victims of Monday's senseless shooting and to thank all the men and women in the public safety, medical and education communities who courageously performed their duties with honor in the face of danger.

At 11 a.m., communities across the nation were to hold interfaith prayer ceremonies, beginning with the ringing of bells, to honor the Virginia Tech victims. Gov. Blunt is asking Missouri churches and communities to participate by holding their own ceremonies with the ringing of bells at 11 a.m., to remember those affected by the tragedy.

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